Article posted Wednesday, February 4, 2015 3:38pm

Dear Mary Pat,

My girlfriend has been dropping not-so-subtle hints about Valentine’s Day and I’m starting to feel a lot of pressure. If I’m reading the circled advertisements right (that have been left in every conspicuous place in my house) she is hoping/expecting for some expensive jewelry. Here’s the thing though … we have only been dating for five months. I love her, but I’m not sure I’m ready to throw down $500 on a nice piece of jewelry. Also, I would rather surprise her with something versus following a “how to” guide on what I’m “supposed” to buy her. Between her hints and all the ads out there, I’m beginning to feel like I don’t have any say in this. Do you have any advice on how I can get through this unscathed?

Cupid’s Target

Sturgeon Bay, WI

Dear Cupid’s Target,

I feel like you are traveling with a target on your back and I agree that you are in a tough spot. Shame on your girlfriend for telling you what to buy her. And shame on her for having such crazy high expectations at this stage in your relationship. She’s probably gotten herself all wrapped up in the Valentine’s Day frenzy but she needs to get a grip on reality. As you’ve said, you’ve only been together for five months.

Valentine’s Day should be about showing significant others just how much you love them. I admit that some men might need a little push or hint here and there but what’s the point of spelling everything out for them? It takes all the fun out of it. Also, having a laundry list of things that you want or “deserve” is a little obnoxious.

My advice is to just go with your gut. Select a gift or a card that is meaningful to her. And only spend what you would have before she started dropping hints. Make reservations to go out to dinner if you can. There are many ways to show people you love them without spending $500. I hope she sees that.

Good luck,

Mary Pat